ABSTRACT
To explore the value of CTA combined augmented reality(AR) navigation in tongue re-construction with free anterolateral thigh perforator (ALTP) flaps. Methods From December, 2016 to December, 2018, 9 cases of tongue cancer patients were treated with lingual reconstruction with the free ALTP flap. The domi-nant perforator was selected according to CTA before operation. The origin, course, locations at the level passing through the fascia lata of the perforators and digital flaps were located and marked under the guidance of AR naviga-tion technology. The flaps area were 6 cm×8 cm-8 cm×12 cm, and the donor sites were closed directly. The effect of the AR navigation was explored intraoperatively.The function of reconstructed tongue and donor site were followed-up 3 to 6 months postoperatively. Results All navigation-positioned perforators were confirmed by AR preoperatively. Intraoperative exploration showed that the perforators were accurately located. All flaps survived, and no vascular cri-sis occurred. The donor sites healed primarily with linear scars. The tongue was plump, and the function of voice and swallowing were favorable. Conclusion CTA combined AR navigation has the advantages of accurate location, easy to use and low cost in tongue reconstruction with free ALTP flaps.It is a worthy method to be popularized.
ABSTRACT
Objective To report the clinical effect of repair of significant tongue defect after tongue cancer radical resection using anterolateral thigh perforator free flap with CTA three-dimensional reconstruction technique assistance.Methods From January,2012 to November,2015,13 cases were performed using anterolateral thigh perforator free flap in the repair of significant tongue defect after tongue cancer radical resection.Preoperation CT scan of the free flap donor site was done to obtain the three-dimensional images of arterial blood area by Digital Three-dimensional Reconstruction CT Technique to determine the origin of the anterolateral thigh flaps,direction,classification,length,diameter and the position of pedicle perforator.According to the condition of the defect of the tongue,flap of area from10 cm×9 cm to 8 cm×6 cm was design,the flap arteries and veins were anastomosed with the external maxillary artery or the superior thyroid artery,anterior vein,internal jugular vein or external jugular vein respectively.The shape and recovery of function of the reconstructed tongue were observed regularly after operation.Results All the flaps in the 13 cases survived,in the postoperative 4 to 18 months followed up,the appearance of the reconstructed tongue was close to the normal one,the patients were satisfied with the mastication and feeding function.Conclusion CTA three-dimensional reconstruction technique assisted anterolateral thigh perforator free flap technique is useful in obtaining good clinical effect,and it is one of the most best methods for repairing significant tongue defect after tongue cancer radical resection.